Predicting the Sound Transmission Loss of Sandwich Panels by Statistical Energy Analysis Approach

A statistical energy analysis (SEA) approach is used to predict the sound transmission loss (STL) of sandwich panels numerically. Unlike conventional SEA studies of the STL of sandwich panels, which consider only the antisymmetric (bending) motion of the sandwich panel, the present approach accounts for both antisymmetric and symmetric (dilatational) motions. Using the consistent higher-order sandwich plate theory, the wave numbers of the waves propagating in the sandwich panel were calculated. Using these wave numbers, the wave speed of the propagating waves, the modal density, and the radiation efficiency of the sandwich panels were determined. Finally, the sound transmission losses of two sandwich panels were calculated and compared with the experimentally measured values, as well as with conventional SEA predictions. The comparisons with the experimental data showed good agreement, and the superiority of the present approach relative to other approaches is discussed and analyzed.